Burn Classifications
This type of burn affects only the epidermis and appears dry and pink to bright red
What is a superficial (first-degree) burn?
This type of burn is most common in children and older adults and is caused by hot liquids or steam. Q
What are moist heat burns or scalds?
This formula calculates fluid resuscitation as 4 mL × kg body weight × % TBSA, with half given in the first 8 hours
What is the Parkland formula?
This term describes burns that encircle an extremity and can act like a rubber band, eliminating blood supply
What are circumferential burns?
The water heater in homes should be set at this temperature range to prevent scalding burns
What is 120-130°F?
This burn classification involves both the epidermis and dermis, commonly presents with blisters, and typically heals within 21 days.
Question: What is a superficial partial-thickness (second-degree) burn?
In burn shock, fluid rapidly shifts from blood vessels to this area, causing a dangerous drop in blood volume.
What is the interstitium (or surrounding tissues)?
For adults with burn injuries, this is the target urine output range that indicates adequate fluid resuscitation.
What is 0.5-1 mL/kg/hour?
A diminished pulse in a patient with circumferential burns indicates this serious complication requiring immediate notification of the provider
What is compromised circulation (or compartment syndrome)?
When cooking, these should be turned away from the front of the stove to prevent burn injuries.
What are pot handles?
The "Rule of Nines" assigns this percentage to each arm in an adult patient.
What is 9 percent?
This type of electrical current produces tetanic muscle contractions that may cause a victim to grip the source, prolonging contact.
What is alternating current (AC)?
This substance should never be applied to burns as it can trap heat and cause further injury.
What is butter (or ice)?
These stress ulcers form in the stomach or duodenum after severe burns and can cause hematemesis or blood in stool.
What are Curling ulcers?
After a severe burn injury, a patient's total caloric needs may increase to this range due to hypermetabolism.
What is 4000-6000 kcal/day?
In full-thickness burns, the skin appears this way and has no sensation to pain or light touch.
What is pale/waxy/yellow/brown/charred with a dry leathery surface?
This toxic gas produced in fires blocks the final step in cellular respiration, preventing cells from using oxygen even when it's available.
What is cyanide?
This surgical procedure involves making incisions through eschar to relieve pressure and restore circulation in circumferential burns
What is an escharotomy?
Dark brown concentrated urine in burn patients may indicate this condition, which can lead to renal failure.
What is myoglobinuria or hemoglobinuria?
Burn patients with uncertain immunization status or whose last dose was more than 5 years ago should receive this to prevent Clostridium tetani infection.
What is tetanus toxoid?
This leathery, black, brown, or tan rigid tissue forms after severe burns and may require surgical incisions to prevent circulatory compromise.
What is eschar?
This metabolic phase occurs after resuscitation in burn patients, characterized by doubled metabolism, protein breakdown, and massive caloric requirements.
What is the flow phase?
This wound care method uses special enzymes like collagenase (Santyl) to selectively remove necrotic tissue without harming healthy tissue.
What is enzymatic debridement?
This blood test measures the percentage of hemoglobin bound to carbon monoxide and is crucial for detecting smoke inhalation, even when pulse oximetry appears normal.
What is carboxyhemoglobin measurement?
These are the 5 elements collectively known as the ABCDE bundle of trauma care.
What are Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure?